1992 Ferrari 512 TR

Ferrari unveiled the new Testarossa (F110) at the 1984 Paris Motor Show, marking the end of production of the legendary Boxer that had been the flagship 12-cylinder Ferrari model for the previous ten years. Styled by Pininfarina, the Testarossa (Red Head) paid homage to the great 1950's sports racers that originally bore that name, referring to their bright red rocker box covers.

The mid-engine, rear wheel drive configuration allowed the centre of gravity to be positioned in the middle of the car resulting in the weight distribution being 40/ 60 front and rear, almost an ideal balance in terms of road holding and steering response. The Testarossa was larger than its Boxer predecessor, some 6 inches wider and 2.5 inches longer at 2550mm, allowing for more leg room and combined with the raised roof height in the cabin made progress a little more comfortable.

Production of the 512TR commenced in 1991 with deliveries to customers in 1992 and was effectively a re-engineered Testarossa, although Ferrari were keen that it was regarded as a new model. As well as the slightly less dramatic, but more subtle styling and a few tweaks to the detailing the main changes were chassis and engine related. The power of the 4.9 Litre, 48 valve, flat 12 was increased to 428 bhp from 380 with a similar improvement in torque, and with the benefit of a 30kg weight reduction on the earlier model, 0-60 times fell from 5.3 to 4.9 seconds and top speed lifted to 195 MPH.

Supplied new to Japan this rare left-hand drive 512TR was built in the traditional colour combination of Rosso Red with black leather upholstery. Recently imported to the UK direct from Japan, the mileage covered today is 54,300kms ~ just over 33,000 miles ~ with a full supporting service history with 11 service stamps in the official Ferrari service book. All other official handbooks are present, as is the original tool kit and spare keys. Import duties are paid and the car comes to our sale with a NOVA and also a fresh MoT meaning it is thus now ready for UK registration. Silverstone Auctions will be happy to help with the UK registration process if required.

A highly collectable and desirable emerging classic Ferrari offered at a very realistic estimate in the market today.